Sorbus are trees and shrubs comprising about 100 species and many cultivars. It is a valuable genus for the small garden as it provides a number of trees that are suitable for the restricted space. They are also valuable for their white flowers in spring, attractive foliage throughout the growing season, and the berries and coloured foliage in the autumn. Another advantage for town gardens is that they will put up with pollution. Altogether a valuable tree. Some species will grow tall (up to 20m (70ft) or more) so it is important to check before buying. However there are plenty, which are much shorter. There are some that are small enough to grow on the rock garden, S. reducta for example. Among the most variable features are the berries. These can be red, while, pink, orange or yellow. They make valuable foodstuff for birds and some, the berries of Rowans, are made into jelly or jam for human consumption.. Most prefer an acid or neutral soil, but the whitebeam, S. aria, will also grow well on chalky or limy soils. They all prefer well-drained soil, although it need not be too fertile Ė in the wild you will find many growing on inhospitable mountain sides. They can be increased from seed or cuttings.

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